As the location of Ellis Island’s original 3.3 acres, the north side was expanded between 1890 and 1897 using landfill provided by ship ballast and possibly excess earth from the construction of the New York City subway system. As the tide of people seeking entry into the United States increased in the early 20th century, additional island sections were added to provide space for the new structures required to accommodate the influx of new immigrants.
The Ellis Island Immigration Museum is located on the island’s north side. A partnership between the National Park Service and the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, Inc. restored fully the Great Hall and opened it to the public in 1990. Along with the Great Hall, the adjacent Kitchen Restaurant & Bath House, Bakery and Carpenter Shop Buildings were restored as office space for the National Park Service. The vast Baggage and Dormitory Building on Ellis Island’s north side remains empty and abandoned. This building was used by immigrants for eating, sleeping and storing their belongings and included a rooftop playground for immigrant children. Stabilization funds have been secured from the State of New Jersey and the National Park Service to save this building. Stabilization work began in 2005, and is currently on the World Monuments Fund's 100 Most Endangered list.
Virtual Tour not yet available; please check back soon. In the meantime, please feel free to tour the Immigration Museum.
